9/11 Moment Of Silence Must Now Be Observed At NY Schools

NEW YORK — Public schools will now be required to hold a moment of silence in remembrance of September 11th, according to a new bill signed by the governor.

The legislation establishes September 11th Remembrance Day and allows for a moment of silence in the morning on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office announced Monday.

"9/11 was one of the single darkest periods in this state's and this nation's history, and we owe it to those we lost and to the countless heroes who ran toward danger that day and the days that followed to do everything we can to keep their memory alive," Cuomo said in a statement.

The moment of silence is aimed at encouraging dialogue and education, his office said.

"By establishing this annual day of remembrance and a brief moment of silence in public schools, we will help ensure we never forget — not just the pain of that moment but of the courage, sacrifice and outpouring of love that defined our response," Cuomo said.

The law goes into effect immediately.

State lawmakers Sen. Joseph Addabbo, Jr. and Assemblymember Stacey Amato were lead sponsors of the bill.

Amato, who represents parts of Queens, noted that soon enough no students in public schools will have been born when 9/11 happened.

"By mandating a brief moment of silent reflection every year, we may ensure that future generations will better understand this day and its significance in our history," Amato said.